SAN FRANCISCO, Mar. 21, 2008 (RISI) - North American containerboard producers failed to push through their announced $50/ton price increase in March against strong resistance from independent converters fearful of their ability to pass through the increase in finished box prices, according to contacts.

But producers will probably push back timing of the proposed price increase and may try again in April although weak box demand in a worsening US economy and the possibility of rising containerboard inventories could make it difficult.